Glin Castle
Ireland: County Limerick: Glin
The 500 acres on the south bank of the Shannon River where Glin Castle is situated are part of an earlier and much larger estate belonging to the Knights of Glin for over 700 years. Included in the 500 acres are farmland, woodland, kitchen and formal gardens. Built in the 1780's, the castle is still inhabited by the Knight of Glin, a branch of the great Norman family, the FitzGeralds. The castle is famous for its intricate, neo-classical plaster ceilings, its superb woodwork including a mahogany library bookcase with its concealed secret door, the inlaid stair rail, the flying staircase, as well as what is probably the best collection of Irish 18th century furniture in private hands. Sitting rooms provide a place for guests to relax, enjoy a fire, a cup of tea or a good book. There is no bar per se, but full bar service is provided. Of the 15 beautifully appointed en suite bedrooms, seven of the superior rooms are located on the castle's third floor. Bedrooms at the back of the castle overlook the gardens, while those at the front have a river view. There are no connecting rooms. The castle's restaurant features Irish country cuisine using a range of fruits, vegetables, eggs - even honey - produced on the estate. Cutting gardens provide fresh flowers. Meals are prepared only for hotel guests. The castle's staff is adept at making their guests feel truly at home. The castle's location is perfect for touring southwest Ireland. Glin is four miles from the Tarbert car ferry, 90 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher, and 40 minutes from Adare. For golfers, Ballybunion is a 30-minute drive, Tralee - one hour, Killarney - 75 minutes and Lahinch - 90 minutes (including the car ferry). The new Doonbeg links course is one hour from Glin.

NOTES: There is NO ELEVATOR. Glin Castle considers itself unsuitable for children under 10. In any case, young children are not allowed in the dining room after 7:00 p.m. Gratuities are at the guest's discretion. Hotel is normally closed from early November until the end of March.